System and method for cellular reseller control of outbound calls from a mobile station

ABSTRACT

A system and method for making a call from a dual mode mobile station functioning in either a PCS (personal communication service) mode or a cellular mode permits PCS communications if the station receives a beacon of a sufficient strength in a PCS frequency band, and alternatively permits cellular communications if the station does not receive a beacon of a sufficient strength in the PCS frequency band. In order for the dual mode station to perform in both a cellular mode and a PCS mode, a single service provider (reseller) will attempt to provide both types of services. The reseller must ensure that a call can be properly billed to a mobile station user for both a call received at the dual mode mobile station and a call transmitted from the dual mode mobile station. Accordingly, methods and systems are provided for controlling cellular service access to and from the mobile station. For an inbound call to the station, the originating caller is provided an access number that accesses an IN platform, which communicates with the station to authenticate the call, bills the call, and routes the call. For an outbound call from the station, the mobile station transmits an access number, the user-dialed number, and identification information for the station to an IN platform, which handles call billing and routing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

The following applications of common assignee contain some commondisclosure:

U.S. patent application entitled "System and Method for a WirelessNetwork of Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Areas With LocalSwitch Interfaces and Enhanced Customer Features," filed Dec. 31, 1996,Attorney Docket No. RIC-96-024 (1575.1680000).

U.S. patent application entitled "System and Method for CellularReseller Control of Inbound Calls To a Mobile Station," filed Dec. 31,1996, Attorney Docket No. RIC-96-062 (1575.1880000).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The following invention relates generally to a network of mobilestations, and more particularly to a network of dual mode mobilestations functioning in an unlicensed personal communications serviceband or in a cellular frequency band with specialized access totelecommunications network elements in either of these frequency bands.

2. Related Art

Independent owners of roadside plazas currently provide a debit cardservice to users, such as truckers. Debit account subscribers are debitcard holders that buy and use prepaid cards to make calls. The debitcards are used to pay for telephone calls made at pay phones located atroadside plazas.

The subscribers call atoll free phone number associated with acentralized debit platform that handles the debit card billing. Thedebit platform, telephone call switching and pay phone managed by aservice provider. The debit platform takes an accounting of the prepaiddebit card amount consumed by the subscriber and debits the account.

The debit platform provides the subscriber with periodic audiblemessages (such as tones, recorded or live voice messages, or the like)alerting the subscriber of the remaining calling time or units remainingon the debit card. The phone service provider then bills the cost of theprepaid card calls to the roadside plaza owner/operator who sold thecards to the subscribers.

The problem with the use of prepaid debit cards is that there are alimited number of telephones available for calling card use at any givenplaza. This limits the amount of revenue that can be generated by theplaza owners/operators. It also forces subscribers to wait to make callsuntil a telephone is available. In the trucking industry, truckersfrequently must wait for specific instructions concerning pick-ups anddeliveries. For example, a trucker may wait for a load to transport inthe direction of home after delivering a load, rather than returninghome with an empty rig. The waiting period can last for days, causingthe trucker to simply wait at the plaza and periodically call adispatcher or supervisor for updated instructions, since there is no wayto receive immediate communications.

Of course the truckers or trucking companies can invest in cellulartelephones for the truckers to use. However, since both outgoing andincoming cellular calls are charged at a high rate on a per-minutebasis, in addition to having high registration fees, this solution iscost prohibitive. What is required is a system to permit truckers tofreely roam from plaza to plaza and within the plazas, while maintainingcommunications in an efficient and economical manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a system and method for providingcustomers the ability to communicate in either a cellular frequency modeor in a personal communications service (PCS) mode. The invention isdescribed with respect to an unlicensed PCS (UPCS) frequency mode, butis capable of functioning in a PCS mode of any frequency range.

Specifically, the customer is provided a dual mode mobile stationcapable of functioning in a PCS mode (i.e., when the mobile stationreceives a PCS beacon of sufficient strength indicating that the mobilestation is in a PCS area) or in a cellular mode.

Cellular communications, a well known technology, typically operatewithin the 800-900 megahertz (MHz) range. Cities or counties are dividedinto large "cells," each cell being equipped with a high-powered radiotransmitter/receiver. The cells form a honeycomb pattern over theterrain. Through control of transmission power, radio frequenciesassigned to each cell can be limited to the boundaries of a particularcell.

PCS is a lower-powered, higher-frequency technology than that ofcellular technology. Specifically, UPCS (unlicensed PCS) operatesbetween 1910 and 1930 MHz, versus the 800-900 MHz range for typicalcellular networks. A UPCS area is determined by cell borders wherein amobile station may transmit and receive communications from a UPCS basestation. In the instant invention, a telecommunications serviceprovider, commonly referred to as a carrier (e.g., MCITelecommunications Corporation) uses its facilities to route a callbetween the UPCS areas. It should be noted that the instant inventioncan perform in any PCS mode, and does not necessarily have to functionin a UPCS mode.

A first embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system andmethod for providing communications to a plurality of dual mode mobilestations (e.g., mobile handsets) functioning in either a PCS (personalcommunication service) mode or in a cellular mode. If the stationreceives a PCS frequency band beacon of a predetermined strength, thencommunications is provided to a station in the PCS mode. On the otherhand, if the station does not receive a PCS frequency band beacon of thepredetermined strength, then communication is provided to a station inthe cellular mode.

The station is authenticated and registered when the station functionsin the PCS mode. This includes transmitting a unique identification codefor the station to an authentication and registration center. Theauthentication and registration center searches a database for theunique identification code, and if the code is found therein, then theauthentication and registration center stores the PCS area wherein thestation is located.

Transmission of an outbound call from the station (functioning in thePCS mode) includes using an advanced intelligent network to determinehow to route the call and routing the call from the station asdetermined by the advanced intelligent network. The uniqueidentification code and a dialed number are transmitted to a mobilityswitch. The unique identification code, the dialed number, and siteinformation (indicating the PCS area wherein the station is located) aretransmitted from the mobility switch to the advanced intelligentnetwork. The advanced intelligent network then determines how to routethe call based upon whether the call is a private dialing plan call (tobe billed in arrears to a private dialing plan customer) or a debit call(to be billed to a user of the station in advance of the call).Specifically, the advanced intelligent network uses the uniqueidentification code for the station to index a table (associated withthe station) within the advanced intelligent network, and searches forthe dialed number in the table to determine whether the call is aprivate dialing plan call, a debit call, or a restricted call.

If it is determined that the outbound call is a private dialing plancall, then a network switching facility is designated for handling ofthe private dialing plan call. The unique identification code for thestation, the dialed number, and the site information are transmitted tothe designated network switching facility from the mobility switch. Thedialed number is translated to a public switched telephone network(PSTN) number using a translation and routing table. The call is routedto a destination caller. (Call completion is permitted using the PSTNnumber.) Finally, the call is billed to the private dialing plancustomer in arrears.

If it is determined that the outbound call is a debit call, then thecall is rated to determine a minimal amount of funds required to placethe call. It is determined whether there are sufficient funds registeredto the station to complete the call for a predetermined period of time.If it is determined that there are insufficient funds registered to thestation (to complete the call for the predetermined period of time),then the station user is permitted to purchase call credits. The callcredits can be consumed during this call or during a subsequent outboundor inbound call. If there are sufficient funds registered to the stationto complete the call (including via recently purchased call credits), anetwork switching facility is designated for handling of the call. Theunique identification code for the station, the dialed number, and thesite information are transmitted to the designated network switchingfacility from the mobility switch. Finally, the call is routed to adestination caller using the dialed number and completion of the call ispermitted.

Transmission of an inbound call to the station (functioning in the PCSmode) includes first determining whether the call is a private dialingplan call (to be billed in arrears to a private dialing plan customer)or a debit call (to be billed to the user of the station in advance ofthe call), by using an advanced intelligent network to determine how toroute the call, and by routing the call from the station as determinedby the advanced intelligent network.

If it is determined that the inbound call is a private dialing plancall, then the dialed number is translated to a PSTN number using atranslation and routing table. A set of routing instructions and thePSTN number are transmitted to a switching facility. The call and thedialed number are then sent to the advanced intelligent network.

If it is determined that the inbound call is a debit call, then a set ofrouting instructions and the dialed number are transmitted to aswitching facility. The call and the dialed number are then sent to theadvanced intelligent network.

Next, the advanced intelligent network queries an authentication andregistration center for a temporary routing number. Here, the advancedintelligent network submits a request to the authentication andregistration center for a location of the handset, and theauthentication and registration center receives the temporary routingnumber from a mobility switch providing connection to the handset. Ifthe station is located during the query, then the call is routed to anetwork facility switch using the temporary routing number. The networkfacility switch has a connection to the mobility switch providingconnection to the handset. However, if the station is not located duringthe query, then the call is routed to a cellular services provider toattempt routing of the call in a cellular mode.

If it is has been determined that the inbound call is a private dialingplan call, then routing and completion of the call to the station isalways permitted. The call is billed to the private dialing plancustomer for the call in arrears.

On the other hand, if the inbound call is a debit call, then the call israted to determine the minimal amount of funds required to place thecall. It is determined whether there are sufficient funds registered tothe station to complete the call for a predetermined period of time(associated with the minimal amount of funds required to place thecall). As with an outbound call, the user of the station is permitted topurchase call credits if it is determined that there are insufficientfunds registered to the station to complete the call (for thepredetermined period of time). The call credits are consumed eitherduring the call or during a subsequent outbound or inbound call. Ifthere are sufficient funds registered to the station to complete thecall for the predetermined period of time (including via recentlypurchased call credits), then routing and completion of the call to thestation is permitted.

A second embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system andmethod for controlling an inbound call received by a mobile stationfunctioning in the cellular frequency band. Here, use of a cellulartelephone number is purchased from a cellular services provider by areseller and maintained confidential from a user of the station.

A destination calling number is assigned to the station that isdifferent from the cellular telephone number. The station user isprovided access to the destination calling number for an inbound call tothe station.

When this destination number is dialed by an originating caller, thedestination calling number is transmitted to an IN (intelligentnetwork). The IN platform determines if the destination calling numberis valid. If it is determined that the call is a valid call, thenauthorization and completion of the inbound call is commenced. If thedestination calling number is not a valid number, then completion of thecall is prevented.

The step of authorizing and completing the call includes using the INplatform to look up the destination calling number to determine whetherthe call is to a recognized station. Specifically, the IN platform isused to look up the destination calling number to determine whether thecall is a private dialing plan call (to be billed in arrears to aprivate dialing plan customer) or a debit call (to be billed in advanceto the user of the station in advance of the call).

Determining whether the call is a private dialing plan call or a debitcall can be accomplished as follows. The destination calling number istranslated back to the cellular telephone number. The cellular number istransmitted to the cellular services provider. The cellular servicesprovider locates the station using the cellular telephone number.Finally, the call is authorized via communications between the INplatform and the station.

In one embodiment, the step of authorizing the call includes use of asecret code. An answer supervision signal is received from the stationand subsequently a secret code is transmitted from the IN platform tothe station. The secret code received at the station is authenticated inorder to determine whether the secret code is a valid secret code. If itdetermined that the secret code is not a valid secret code, thencompletion of the call is prevented. If it is determined that the secretcode is a valid secret code, then (1) a new secret code is reset andstored in the IN platform and in the station, (2) the call is completedbetween the originating caller and the station, and (3) the call isbilled to the private dialing plan customer in arrears if the call is aprivate dialing plan call, or instead is billed to the user of thestation in advance if the call is a debit call.

In another embodiment, the step of authorizing the call includes use ofa platform identification information. The destination calling number istranslated back to the cellular telephone number. The IN platform isused to transmit both a platform identification number (previouslyprovided by the cellular services provider) and the cellular telephonenumber to the cellular services provider. It is then determined whetherthe platform identification information matches values stored in adatabase. If the platform identification information is not found in thedatabase, then call completion is prevented. If the platformidentification information is found in the database, then (1) thestation using the cellular telephone number is located; (2) the callbetween the originating caller and the station is completed, and (3) thecall is billed to the private dialing plan customer in arrears if thecall is a private dialing plan call, or instead is billed to the user ofthe station in advance if the call is a debit call.

A third embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system andmethod for controlling an outbound call transmitted from a mobilestation in a cellular frequency band. Here, use of a cellular telephonenumber is purchased from a cellular services provider by a reseller andmaintained confidential from a user of the station.

If the station user dials a destination number, then an access number isautomatically transmitted to a cellular services facility for accessingan IN platform. Access to the IN platform is obtained for validation ofthe call. The call is then rated (to determining billing) and completedbetween the user and a called party.

The access number is first transmitted to a switching facility havingaccess to a carrier capable of transmitting the access number to the INplatform. Second, the access number is transmitted to a switchingfacility of the carrier, this switching facility transmitting the accessnumber to the IN platform for validation. Third, a signal is transmittedto the station indicating that a valid access number has been received.Finally, a mobile station identification number and the dialeddestination number are transmitted to the IN platform.

The step of rating the call and completing the call features (1)transmitting the call from a cellular area wherein the station islocated to the IN platform to determine how to bill and route the call,and (2) using the station identification number and the dialeddestination number to determine if the call is a private dialing plancall, a debit call, or a restricted call.

In one embodiment, the step of rating the call and completing the callincludes billing the call to a private dialing plan customer in arrearsif it is determined that the call is a private dialing plan call.

If it has been determined that the outbound call is a debit call, thencompletion of the call is permitted if it determined that there aresufficient funds registered to the station to complete the call for apredetermined period of time. If it is determined that there areinsufficient funds registered to the station to complete the call forthe predetermined period of time, then the user of the station ispermitted to purchase call credits.

In another embodiment, the step of rating the call and completing thecall includes preventing completion of the call if it is determined thatthe call is a restricted call.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The present invention will be described with reference to theaccompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of a cellular mobile telephonesystem, in particular a cellular mobile system having a global mobileswitching system architecture, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary illustration of an environment for the presentinvention, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a unlicensed personal servicearea, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the first portion of an outboundcall from a dual mode mobile station.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an internal database of in anintelligent network platform comprising a series of outboundcall-screening profile table.

FIG. 6 is a detailed illustration of an outbound call-screening profiletable representing a dual mode mobile station.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart detailing the operation of an intelligent networkplatform with respect to an outbound call received from a dual modemobile station.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating the relationship between amobility server and a sample telecommunications network that handles anoutbound private dialing plan call.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the sequence of steps carried out inrouting a private dialing plan call.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating how an outbound call can berouted from a designated switch.

FIG. 11 is a detailed description illustrating how databases of anintelligent network platform are updated.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an outbound debitcall.

FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C are flow charts illustrating the operation of aninbound call to a dual mode mobile station in an unlicensed personalcommunications service mode.

FIG. 14 illustrates an inbound call to a dual mode mobile stationfunctioning in a cellular mode.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart demonstrating the establishment of a connectionbetween the originating caller and the destination dual mode mobilestation for a dual mode mobile station receiving an inbound call in acellular mode.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart for a method for determining whether an inboundcellular call transmitted from an IN platform to a located dual modemobile station is a valid call.

FIG. 17 illustrates an outbound call from a dual mode mobile stationfunctioning in a cellular mode.

FIG. 18 illustrates an outbound call from a dual mode mobile stationfunctioning in a cellular mode.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart demonstrating the establishment of a connectionbetween an originating dual mode mobile station transmitting an outboundcall and a destination caller.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is directed to a system and method forimplementing a wireless network of dual mode mobile stations capable offunctioning in both a cellular mode of communications and an personalcommunications service (PCS) mode of communications. Although theinstant invention is described with respect to an unlicensed PCS (UPCS)mode, the invention is capable of functionioning in a PCS mode of anyfrequency range.

Specifically, systems and methods are presented for three generalembodiments, for each of which specific embodiments are discussed. Thethree general embodiments for the invention are: (1) a wireless networkof UPCS areas with local switch interfaces and enhanced customerfeatures, (2) control by a cellular reseller of inbound calls to a dualmode mobile station, and (3) control by a cellular reseller of outboundcalls from a dual mode mobile station.

In the first embodiment, the dual functionality of the dual mode mobilestation is discussed with respect to both a cellular and a UPCS mode ofcommunications. Specifically, the dual mode mobile station transmitscalls to and receives calls from another caller in a UPCS mode if thedual mode mobile station receives a beacon of sufficient strength andspecific identity from a UPCS base station. Otherwise, the dual modemobile station transmits calls to and receives calls from another callerin a cellular mode of communications. A discussion of customer billingwith respect to the UPCS mode of communications is also presented. Acall made by a dual mode mobile station user, whether inbound (arrivingat the dual mode mobile station) or outbound (placed from the dual modemobile station) can be debited to the user in advance of the call or caninstead be billed to the customer (paying for the network of dual modemobile stations) in arrears of the call.

In the second embodiment, a specific system and method of resellercontrol of a dual mode mobile station is presented for an inbound callarriving at a dual mode mobile station. It is likely that for the dualmode mobile station to perform in both a cellular mode and a UPCS modeof communications, a single service provider will purchase use ofcellular phone numbers and resell use of these cellular phone numbers toa dual mode mobile station customer. To avoid fraud and protect thereseller's ability to adequately bill the call to the customer, in oneembodiment a communication between an originating caller, an IN(intelligent network) platform, and a destination mobile station takesplace to authenticate the call. In that communication, a secret code isexchanged between the IN platform and the destination dual mode mobilestation. In addition, a new secret code is calculated in both the INplatform and the destination dual mode mobile station for futurecommunications. To effect the same ends, namely to avoid fraud, inanother embodiment the cellular services provider itself authenticatesthe call using an IN platform identification number. The call can bebilled as a private dialing plan call to the customer in arrears or as adebit call to the mobile station user in advance, similarly as withrespect to the first embodiment.

In the third embodiment, a specific system and method of resellercontrol of a dual mode mobile station is presented for an outbound calltransmitted from the dual mode mobile station. Similarly to the secondembodiment, a single service provider will purchase use of cellularphone numbers and resell use of these cellular phone numbers to a dualmode mobile station customer. To avoid fraud and protect the reseller'sability to adequately bill the call to the customer, initially thereseller provides the originating mobile station user a special accessnumber to gain access to the cellular network. A network switch receivesthe call and routes it to an IN platform, which in turn communicateswith the originating dual mode mobile station to authenticate and billthe call. The call can be billed as a private dialing plan call to thecustomer in arrears or as a debit call to the mobile station user inadvance, similarly as with respect to the first embodiment.

I. An Example Environment for the Invention

The instant invention can be described in terms of a straightforwardexample environment. The example environment is a nationwidecommunication service used by truckers. Each trucker can receive aninbound call from: (1) an individual recognized as being part of aprivate communications network provided for the trucker's carriercompany, or (2) an individual not associated with a privatecommunications network, i.e., an individual using the public switchedtelephone network (PSTN). Similarly, each trucker can make an outboundcall to: (1) an individual recognized as being part of a privatecommunications network provided for the trucker's carrier company, or(2) an individual not associated with a private communications network.Private communications are billed to the trucker's carrier company inarrears (i.e., billed at the end of the month), whereas personalcommunications are debited to the trucker's personal account afterappropriate authorization before the call is routed.

Although the invention is described in terms of this exampleenvironment, description in these terms is provided for convenienceonly. It is not intended that the invention be limited to theapplication in this example environment. In fact, after reading thefollowing description, it will become apparent to a person skilled inthe relevant art how to implement the invention in alternativeenvironments. For example, the invention can be implemented by thetransportation industry (e.g., providing services for commuters),educational institutes (e.g., providing services for students andfaculty), or the retail industry (e.g., providing services for shoppersat shopping malls).

II. System and Method for Wireless Network of Unlicensed PersonalCommunications Service Areas with Local Switch Interfaces and EnhancedCustomer Features

The instant invention provides each caller in a wireless network with adual mode mobile station. The dual mode mobile station is capable ofoperating in both a cellular mode and a UPCS (unlicensed personalcommunications service) mode of communications. The features of theinstant invention with respect to these respective modes ofcommunications are illustrated by the discussion below.

A. Cellular Mode of Communications

The following is a description of the invention with respect to acellular mode of communications.

Cellular communications, a well known technology, typically operates onthe 800-900 megahertz range. Cities or counties are divided into "cells"each cell being equipped with a high-powered radio transmitter/receiver.The cells form a honeycomb pattern over the terrain. Through control oftransmission power, radio frequencies assigned to each cell can belimited to the boundaries of a particular cell.

When a dual mode mobile station functioning in a cellular mode movesfrom one cell to another cell, a central switching office monitors thismovement and at the appropriate time, transfers the phone call to thenew cell at a different frequency in such a manner that is notnoticeable to the caller. Equipment at the central switching officetracks and coordinates all the dual mode mobile stations, in addition toall other cellular handsets, in a service area via the identificationnumber of each mobile station.

This unique identification numbers, generically known as an ESN(electronic security number) and MIN (mobile identification number) arestored onto a memory chip (called a PROM or EPROM) located in each dualmode mobile station, as well as any other station (e.g., handset)functioning in a cellular mode. Each time the telephone is used, the ESNand MIN are transmitted to the central switching office by means ofspecific signaling protocols during a dialing sequence in a routine thatis undetectable to the user.

FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of a CMTS (cellular mobile telephonesystem), in particular a cellular mobile system having a GSM (globalmobile switching system) architecture. The GSM architecture describedbelow is used only to demonstrate the instant invention. As easilyrecognized by those of ordinary skill, the instant invention canfunction in any cellular mobile system.

The GSM architecture of FIG. 1 comprises BTSs (base transceiver systems)100, 105, 110 and 115, BSCs (base station controllers) 120, 125, 130 and135, MSCs (mobile service switching centers) 140, 145, 165, VLRs(visitor location registers) 150, 155, 170, HLR (home location register)160, location area₋₋ 1 180, and location area₋₋ 2 185, and PSTN (publicswitched telephone network) 175.

Each BTS-BSC pair comprises a base station subsystem (BSS). For example,BTS 100 and BSC 120 comprise a single BSS, BTS 105 and BSC 125 comprisea single BSS, etc. Each cell (schematically shown as an oval areaserviced by a single BTS) is controlled by one or more BTSs 100, 105,110 and 115 which are under the management of one or more BSCs 120, 125,130 and 135. BSCs 120, 125, 130 and 135 are connected to MSCs 140, 145,respectively. Specifically, BSCs 120 and 125 are connected to MSC 140,while BSCs 130, 135 are connected to MSC 145. Each MSC 140, 145 and 165is a central switching center that provides services and coordinationbetween a dual mode mobile station (functioning in the cellular mode)user and the PSTN 175 and between any two or more dual mode mobilestation users. Hence, MSCs 140, 145, and 165, for example, provide aninterconnection point between the cellular system and a PSTN.

The cellular services provider for each cellular handset, including eachdual mode mobile station, stores registration, validation, accesscapabilities, and supplementary services and features information forthe handset in a single associated HLR 160. HLR 160 is a database thatis accessed by the cellular service provider facilities. The dual modemobile station for trucker 172 has associated HLR 160, connected to thedual mode mobile station home MSC 165. The information stored in HLR 160comprises dynamic data that will allow an incoming call to be routedimmediately to the called mobile station.

VLRs 150, 155, and 170 are local databases connected to MSCs 140, 145,and 165, respectively. Each VLR 150, 155, and 170 contains registrationinformation for a dual mode mobile station visiting in a particulararea. In other words, each VLR 150, 155, and 170 stores the informationrelating to a mobile subscriber in a given coverage area, allowing aconnected MSC 140, 145, or 165 to set up incoming and outgoing calls.

Each dual mode mobile station performs the function of locationupdating. As shown in FIG. 1, each cell is serviced by one BTS 100, 105,110, and 115. Specifically, BTSs 100, 105 are located in location area₋₋1 180, whereas BTSs 110, 115 are located in location area₋₋ 2 185.

Each location area, e.g., location area₋₋ 1 180 or location area₋₋ 2185, is divided into one or more cells, schematically shown asoval-shaped regions within these location areas. Each VLR 150, 155 and170 serves one or more location areas. As shown in FIG. 1, VLR 150serves location area₋₋ 1 180, while VLR 155 serves location area₋₋ 2185.

VLR functionality is performed as follows. The VLR for a particularlocation area ignores dual mode mobile stations which are not switchedon. Each dual mode mobile station stores a location area identity codeidentifying the location area wherein the mobile station was lastlocated. Whenever a dual mode mobile station is switched on, the dualmode mobile station retrieves a stored location area identity code andcompares that code with an identity code being broadcast within theparticular cell wherein the dual mode mobile station is currentlylocated. If the identity codes match, then the VLR has already beenupdated correctly and the dual mode mobile station need not take furtheraction.

However, if there is no match between the location area identity codestored in the dual mode mobile station and the identity code beingbroadcast in the cell wherein the dual mode mobile station is located,then the dual mode mobile station must identify itself by transmittingits subscriber identity (e.g., ESN and MIN) to an appropriate BTS (i.e.,the BTS servicing the cell wherein the dual mode mobile station islocated), which is forwarded to the BSC serving the BTS, and passed onto the associated VLR. For example, suppose trucker 172 switches on hisdual mode mobile station while located in the cell serviced by BTS 105of location area₋₋ 1 180. BTS 105 transmits the trucker's dual modemobile station identification information from BTS 105 to BSC 125, whichcorrespondingly transmits the dual mode mobile station information toVLR 150. VLR 150 will receive the dual mode mobile stationidentification information and assign a temporary identificationinformation to the trucker's dual mode mobile station. VLR 150 receivesinformation relating to the trucker's previous location area (i.e., thelocation area wherein the trucker's dual mode mobile station was lastturned on) and the location area wherein the dual mode mobile station ispresently located, namely location area₋₋ 1 180.

In addition, each time a dual mode mobile station is moved into a newlocation, the corresponding VLR for the new location area is informed ofthis status change. Suppose trucker 172 travels from location area₋₋ 1180 to location area₋₋ 2 185, as shown in FIG. 1. Here, the dual modemobile station is carried into a new location area, namely locationarea₋₋ 2 185, which is serviced by a different VLR, namely VLR 155.

Accordingly, HLR 160, the VLR wherein the dual mode mobile station iscurrently located, namely VLR 155, and the VLR of the location areawherein the dual mode mobile station was previously located, namely VLR150, must all be updated and informed of the trucker's new status.Specifically, the "old" VLR 150 erases the data relating to the dualmode mobile station for trucker 172, the "new" VLR 155 records relevantparameters needed to process calls for the dual mode mobile station fortrucker 172, and HLR 160 records the information that the dual modemobile station is now in an area serviced by VLR 155.

The dynamics of a call outbound from one dual mode mobile station andinbound to another dual mode mobile station in the cellular frequencyband will serve to demonstrate how the instant invention operates withrespect to a cellular system.

Suppose a dual mode mobile station user in location area₋₋ 1 180 wishesto place a call to a dual mode mobile station user in location area₋₋ 2185, specifically from a cell serviced by BTS 105 to a cell serviced byBTS 115. The call is transmitted from the dual mode mobile station to:(1) the base station servicing the cell (i.e., BTS 105, to BSC 125), (2)the MSC 140, (3) the PSTN network 175, specifically to the IEC(interexchange carrier) providing services to the calling dual modemobile station, and (4) MSC 165, which is the home MSC for the callingdual mode mobile station. The home MSC for the calling dual mode mobilestation, namely MSC 165, will send a message to HLR 160 of the calleddual mode mobile station to retrieve information regarding where thecalled dual mode mobile station is currently located. The home MSC thenattempts to locate the called dual mode mobile station using the lastknown location information (VLR identity) provided by the HLR 160.Specifically, the home MSC 165 sends a message over PSTN network 175,specifically over the IEC carrier providing services to the called dualmode mobile station, to the MSC servicing the current location areawherein the called dual mode mobile station is located, namely MSC 145.MSC 145 retrieves the location of the called dual mode mobile stationfrom VLR 155.

The dual mode mobile station is then paged through all base stations(BSSs) served by MSC 145, because the exact location of the dual modemobile station is unknown. In other words, BSC 130 and BTS 110 page onecell within location area₋₋ 2 185, whereas BSC 135 and BTS 115 pageanother cell within location area₋₋ 2 185. After it is determined thatthe dual mode mobile station of trucker 172 is located within the cellserviced by BTS 110, VLR 155 authenticates the dual mode mobile stationand prepares for traffic channel encoding. After the dual mode mobilestation answers, a traffic channel is selected and the connection iscompleted.

The embodiments (1) "System and Method for Cellular Control of OutboundCalls from a Mobile Station" and (2) "System and Method for CellularControl of Inbound Calls to a Mobile Station", both described below,provide detailed explanations of specific modifications to the abovestandard cellular operation for enhancing the operation of a dual modemobile station capable of operating in a cellular mode and in a UPCSmode.

B. UPCS Mode of Communications

Significantly, the instant invention provides each trucker with a dualmode mobile station that is not only capable of functioning in acellular mode, but which is also capable of functioning in a UPCS mode.

UPCS is a lower-powered, higher-frequency technology than that ofcellular technology. UPCS operates typically between 1910 and 1930 MHz,versus the 800-900 MHz range for typical cellular networks. A PCN(personal communications network) is the network associated with a UPCStechnology.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary illustration of an environment for the instantembodiment. To better illustrate the invention, the PCN is divided intoa plurality of UPCS areas. FIG. 2 includes UPCS areas 205, 210 and 215,UPCS antenna(s) and base station(s) 220, 225 and 230, cellular antennas235 and 240, and truckers 250, 255, 260 and 265, with each truckerbearing a single dual mode mobile station. The dual mode mobile stationof each trucker 250, 255, 260 and 265 monitors the unlicensed UPCS radiobands for a beacon that has been transmitted from one of UPCS areas 205,210 and 215.

The dashed lines around the UPCS areas 205, 210 and 215 represent theouter limits wherein beacons from these UPCS areas can be received withsufficient strength by a dual mode mobile station. Therefore, when adual mode mobile station is within the dashed lines of one of UPCS areas205-215, that dual mode mobile station is capable of transmitting orreceiving communications via a UPCS mode in lieu of a cellular mode. (Itshould be noted that each UPCS area can have one or more UPCS antennasand base stations.)

Referring to FIG. 2, the dual mode mobile station for trucker 255 iswithin the dashed lines of UPCS area 215, indicating that the dual modemobile station for trucker 255 can establish communication via UPCSantenna and base station 230. In the instant invention, when aswitched-on dual mode mobile station is located within a UPCS area, thedual mode mobile station establishes UPCS communication instead ofstandard cellular communication. Therefore, the switched-on dual modemobile station for trucker 255 will establish UPCS communication viaUPCS antenna and base station 230, instead of establishing cellularcommunication via any of the Cellular antennas 235-240.

On the other hand, truckers 250 and 265 are out of range for receiving atransmitted beacon from any of UPCS areas 205-215. Since the dual modemobile station of trucker 250 is located outside of any of UPCS areas205-215, the dual mode mobile station for trucker 250 can only establishcommunication via Cellular antenna 235, which is an antennacorresponding to the cell within which the dual mode mobile station fortrucker 250 is located. Similarly, the dual mode mobile station fortrucker 265 can only establish communication via Cellular antenna 240corresponding to the cell within which trucker 265 is located. Sincetrucker 260 is traveling into UPCS area 210, the dual mode mobilestation for trucker 260 will establish communication with UPCS antennaand base station 225, providing there is a call being established in thecellular mode.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a UPCS area. UPCS area 300comprises one or more dual mode mobile stations 305, mobility system350, LAN (local area network) 335, and HLR 330. Mobility system 350comprises UPCS antenna(s) and base station(s) 315, radio exchange 320,mobility switch 325. UPCS area 300 has conventional telecommunicationsconnectivity to IEC (inter-exchange carrier) 340, and LEC (localexchange carrier) 345 via mobility switch 325. An IEC is a long distanceservice provider, specifically, a provider authorized by the FCC toprovide service between LATAs (local access and transport areas). A LECis a local service provider, specifically, a provider authorized toprovide service within a given LATA.

Each dual mode mobile station 305 has one or more North Americannumbering plan number(s), such as for example MINs (as discussed above),which are associated therewith for identification purposes. Othernumbers can also be assigned for identification purposes, including ESNs(as discussed above) or other identification codes stored by the dualmode mobile station 305. The dual mode mobile station 305 is dual modebecause it is capable of functioning in both the unlicensed UPCSfrequency band in addition to a standard cellular frequency band.

Mobility system 350 provides wireless PBX (private branch exchange)functionality for UPCS area 300. A PBX is customer premise equipmentthat provides localized switching for a private customer. The mobilitysystem (including UPCS antenna(s) and base station(s) 315, radioexchange 320, and mobility switch 325) handles dual mode mobile stationregistration and authentication, local facility switching, call debitingand monitoring, call supervision, and call routing for UPCS area 300. Inaddition, mobility system 350 (specifically the mobility switch 325)interfaces with IEC 340 and LEC 345. Hence, mobility system 350 controlsthe origination or destination of any UPCS call.

The following is a description of registration and authentication of adual mode mobile station within a UPCS area. When a dual mode mobilestation 305 is switched on within UPCS area 300, i.e., when dual modemobile station 305 receives a beacon transmitted from UPCS antenna(s)and base station(s) 315, dual mode mobile station 305 will function in aUPCS mode. This requires authentication and registration of dual modemobile station 305.

Dual mode mobile station 305 transmits an mobile identification numberto UPCS antenna(s) and base station(s) 315. The dual mode mobile stationmobile identification number is transmitted from UPCS antenna(s) andbase station(s) 315 to mobility switch 325 via the radio exchange 320.Mobility switch 325 is connected to local area network/wide area network(LAN/WAN) 335. (As recognized by those of ordinary skill, the connectionbetween mobility switch 325 and HLR 330 may be implemented by anyconventional means, and not necessarily by a local area network or awide area network.) In the instant example, mobility switch 325 may beconnected to LAN 335 via a direct connection, an SS7 connection, a framerelay (X.25 enhancement protocol) connection, or another equivalentconnection recognized by those of ordinary skill in the telephony anddata communications art. The mobile identification number is thentransmitted from mobility switch 325 to HLR 330 via LAN/WAN 335. HLR 330will search a database to determine whether dual mode mobile station305, as identified by its mobile identification number, is a valid dualmode mobile station. This authentication process can be performedaccording to methods known by those of ordinary skill in the art.

In one embodiment, in this authentication process a special algorithm isrun by the dual mode mobile station. For example, HLR 330 can send anumber which the dual mode mobile station 305 uses (along with itsA-key) in order to run an algorithm and present an answer for comparisonby the radio exchange 320, mobility switch 325, or the HLR 330, itself.If the expected answer is correct, then the dual mode mobile station 305is then considered to be authentic and authorized to attach to thenetwork.

If the authentication process is successful, then HLR 330 will updateits database to reflect that dual mode mobile station 305 is currentlylocated in UPCS 300.

In one embodiment, HLR 330 is separate and distinct from the cellularHLR 160 of FIG. 1. In this embodiment, HLR functionality (namely,locating a mobile headset upon the arrival of an inbound call) in theUPCS mode is separate and distinct from HLR functionality in thecellular mode. Here, the UPCS service provider uses one or more UPCSHLRs to store the location of a mobile headset in a given UPCS area.

In another embodiment, however, HLR 330 is the same entity as CellularHLR 160 of FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the same HLR is used to store thelocation of a dual mode headset for both the UPCS band operation and thecellular band operation.

In the instant embodiment, queries and responses between the mobilityswitch 325 and HLR 330 are transmitted using an IS41 protocol, aprotocol commonly used in cellular systems. However, those of ordinaryskill will recognize that equivalent protocols may be used as well. Theprincipal functions of HLR 330 are (1) to actively participate in theauthentication of the dual mode mobile station 305 and (2) to maintaininformation regarding the last known location of dual mode mobilestation 305 within UPCS area 300, if the dual mode mobile station wereto receive an incoming call (as demonstrated below).

One important feature of the instant invention is that the dual modemobile stations allow the user to establish communication using either a"private dialing plan" or regular PSTN debit services. A private dialingplan call refers to a call made to or received from a dialed number(i.e., a destination number) that has been pre-defined to thetelecommunication services provider, i.e., to an IEC or to a LEC. In theinstant embodiment, private dialing plan calls include calls made todestination callers and received from originating callers wherein thecall has been previously authorized by the trucker's carrier company.Since private dialing plan calls have been previously authorized and,therefore, pre-defined to the service provider's network, in the instantembodiment such calls are billed in arrears to the trucker's carriercompany and not to the trucker himself.

On the other hand, debit calls are calls made from a dual mode mobilestation (outgoing calls) or calls received at a dual mode mobile station(incoming calls) that have not been authorized by the trucker's carriercompany and pre-defined to the telecommunication system. Accordingly,debit calls are personal calls made using the dual mode mobile stationand are billed to the dual mode mobile station user in advance. In theinstant embodiment, the trucker uses a credit card to pay for such debitcalls, though as recognized by those of ordinary skill, any form ofadvanced credit or payment option may be provided. The entity thatauthorizes acceptable originating and destination callers entitled touse the private dialing plan defined by the network of thetelecommunications service provider, i.e., the trucker's carrier companyin the instant embodiment, also has the capability of restrictingcertain calls such that a given dual mode mobile station cannot be usedfor making outgoing calls to, or receiving incoming calls from, arestricted destination number. These features of the instant inventionwill become more apparent in the description that follows.

One example of a private dialing plan is a VNet (virtual network)private dialing plan, which is a dialing plan privately defined for acustomer at the customer's long distance carrier, e.g., MCITelecommunications Corporation. A VNet call is a call by a customerhaving a VNet private dialing plan (recognized by the user'stelecommunications provider) routed over a particular trunk group.

The telecommunications service provider must be able to distinguish aVNet call from a standard PSTN call. The VNet call may be distinguishedin two ways. The first method of distinguishing a VNet call is toprovide the customer a dedicated trunk group to the network facilitiesof a telecommunications service provider. For example, thetelecommunications service provider may route a customer's privatedialing plan calls over a FGD (feature group D) DAL (direct access line)trunk group from the customer's mobility switch to a network switch. FGDis the class of service associated with the modem equal-accessarrangements, wherein the user may designate any long-distance provider.FGD provides all the IECs identical connections to the LEC switches, andgives customers a high quality of service, billing the user for theactual measured use in minutes. A VNet trunk group using a DALconnection may be termed a VNet/DAL trunk group and performs the samefunctions, but allows unique signaling to be used between the mobilitysystem and the IEC switch.

The telecommunications service provider may also distinguish a VNet callby providing the customer a special access code. In this case, once thenetwork switch receives an access number (i.e., a special "800" number),the caller receives a dial tone. The caller then dials a special VNetnumber that provides the caller access to a private virtual network. Forthis case, the VNet call may be routed over a shared trunk group, notnecessarily a dedicated trunk group. A VNet call that uses specialaccess may be termed a VNet/remote-access call.

It should be noted that with VNet, (1) users can dial private numbers orPSTN numbers, (2) private numbers can stay on-net ("on the network") orbe translated to recognized PSTN numbers, (3) PSTN numbers can betranslated to on-net or different PSTN numbers. A key relevance of theVNet to the instant invention is that despite how the call is dialed,routed, or translated, a VNet type is billed in arrears.

It is important to note that the instant invention is not limited toVNet calls, but encompasses any form of private dialing plan call, asrecognized by those of ordinary skill. Hence, any method ofdistinguishing a private dialing plan call from a call wherein thecalling parties are billed is included herein.

The numbers dialed by a private dialing plan user are recognized by thetelecommunications service provider. But these private dialing plannumbers are not standard PSTN numbers, as discussed in further detailbelow, that are routed between LEC, IEC, cellular, and UPCS switches.For this reason, private dialing plan numbers are translated by thetelecommunications service provider into valid PSTN numbers recognizedby the standard telecommunications service providers. As defined furtherbelow, the private dialing plan numbers are recognized by an internaltranslation table or by an external routing and translation table of atelecommunications service provider switch.

1. An Outbound Call in a UPCS Communications Mode

The following is a description of outbound calls in a UPCScommunications mode, specifically of: (1) an outbound private dialingplan call, and (2) an outbound debit call.

a. An Outbound Private Dialing Plan Call

The following is a description of an outbound private dialing plan callfrom a dual mode mobile station.

Since dual mode mobile station 305 has been registered in UPCS area 300,the location of the dual mode mobile station is known to or can bedetermined by the mobility system 350 (including UPCS antenna(s) andbase station(s) 315, radio exchange 320, and mobility switch 325) forUPCS area 300. Specifically, the whereabouts of dual mode mobile station305 are known to mobility switch 325.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the first portion of an outboundcall from dual mode mobile station 305. FIG. 4 includes dual mode mobilestation 305, UPCS antenna and base station 315, radio exchange 320,mobility switch 325, signaling network 405, IEC switches 410 and 810,and intelligent network (IN) platform 430. IN platform 430 includesservices data point (SDP) 420 and service switching control point (SSCP)415. The IN platform 430, including SDP 420 and SSCP 415, is a specifictype of advanced intelligent network (AIN), as recognized by those ofordinary skill. An AIN (or IN) permits a telecommunications serviceprovider, as well as call originators and call receivers the ability todetermine unique routing of a call and to provide each call with specialfeatures. SSCP 415 is a specialized digital telephone switch thatqueries SDP 420 for specific customer-related information in response toa specific command or service logic. SDP 420 is the database containingthe customer-related information queried by SSCP 415.

When a user dials a destination telephone number from a dual mode mobilestation 305, dual mode mobile station 305 outpulses: (1) the dialednumber, and (2) the mobile identification number (e.g., an ANI, MIN,ESN, or a temporary identification allocated by the mobility switch 325or radio exchange 320) to mobility switch 325 via UPCS antenna and basestation 315 and radio exchange 320.

In response, mobility switch 325 transmits a "message set" to INplatform 430. The message set transmitted by mobility switch 325contains three items of information: (1) the mobile identificationnumber of the dual mode mobile station, (2) the destination telephonenumber, and (3) originating site information. The mobile identificationnumber of the dual mode mobile station and the dialed number representthe same information, or a variation of the information, related fromdual mode mobile station 305. The site information uniquely identifiesUPCS area 300 and mobility switch 325 for proper call rating. Callrating refers to determining the cost of a call using the call distance(calculated from the location of the destination caller and theorigination caller) and rates per-time established by thetelecommunications services provider and accepted by theservice-receiving customer.

The message set from mobility switch 325 is transmitted to an INplatform for the mobility switch. In the instant embodiment, mobilityswitch 325 transmits the message set, including the mobileidentification number of the dual mode mobile station, the dialednumber, and the UPCS area site information, to SSCP 415 of IN platform430.

In addition, in the instant embodiment, mobility switch 325 may providethe address of SDP 420 in the outgoing message set. Signaling network405 and SSCP 415 then route the message set to SDP 420 using the addressof SDP 420. However, alternative methods of routing the message set frommobility switch 325 are also possible, as recognized by those ofordinary skill.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an internal database of SDP 420comprising a series of outbound call-screening profiles (OCSPs). Thedatabase of SDP 420 illustrated in FIG. 5 includes OCSPs 505, 515, 520and 525, which are respectively tables representing each dual modemobile station, as explained in detail below. Hence, SDP 420 has an OCSP505, 515, 520 and 525 representing each dual mode mobile station 305.After SDP 420 receives a message set from SSCP 415 that has beentransmitted from mobility switch 325, SDP 420 uses the mobileidentification number of the dual mode mobile station to find anappropriate outbound call-screening profile. As shown in FIG. 5, themobile identification number of dual mode mobile station 305 uniquelydesignates OCSP 505 as the data table corresponding to dual mode mobilestation 305.

The service logic program of FIG. 5 can be run in SSCP 415, wherein SSCP415 queries SDP 420 to obtain specific data about the user and can alsowrite to SDP 420. In another embodiment, SDP 420 itself provides part orall of the service logic program.

FIG. 6 is a detailed illustration of OCSP 505, which is an outboundcall-screening profile table representing dual mode mobile station 305.OCSP 505 has an allowed call section 610, a restricted list section 630,and a debit account balance section 640. The allowed call section 610includes telephone numbers XXX-XXX-XXXX, YYY-YYY-YYYY, and ZZZ-ZZZ-ZZZZ.The restricted list section 630 includes the telephone numbersAAA-AAA-AAAA and BBB-BBB-BBBB. Since private dialing plan calls arepermitted, the number of digits can be arbitrarily small or large. Inaddition, the invention permits ranges of numbers and wildcard numbersto be specified. The debit account balance section 640 includes a $50amount. In should be noted that the invention permits a debit balance tobe specified in generic units or minutes as well.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart detailing the operation of an SDP with respect toan outbound call received from a dual mode mobile station. Specifically,FIG. 7 depicts the operation of SDP 420 with relation to the outboundcall received from dual mode mobile station 305. As mentioned, themobile identification number of dual mode mobile station 305 has alreadybeen used to locate a corresponding outbound call screening profile,namely OCSP 505, as provided in FIG. 6.

In step 710, the number dialed by dual mode mobile station 305 (i.e.,the destination number) is searched for a match in the allowed callsection 610.

In step 720, if a match for the dialed number is located in the allowedcall section 610, then in step 730 the outbound call is treated as aprivate dialing plan call. For example, suppose the number dialed atdual mode mobile station 305 is YYY-YYY-YYYY. SDP 420 searches allowedcall section 610 of OCSP 505 for the number YYY-YYY-YYYY. Since thenumber YYY-YYY-YYYY is found in the allowed call section 610, theoutbound call is treated as a valid private dialing plan call. (Theremainder of FIG. 7 will be further described below in connection withan outbound call from a dual mode mobile station that is debited to theuser of the mobile station.)

Referring to FIG. 4, when the SDP determines that the dialed number is avalid private dialing plan number, the SDP sends an instruction messageback to the SSCP. The SSCP then sends a message back to the mobilityswitch. In the instant embodiment, when the dialed number YYY-YYY-YYYYis found in the allowed call section 610, then SDP 420 sends a messageset back to the mobility switch 325 via SSCP 415 and signaling network405. The message set sent from SDP 420 to SSCP 415 contains twoinstruction items. The first instruction item is to invoke privatedialing plan call processing. The second instruction item is to providea specific mobile identification number to be subsequently sent to themobility switch 325.

A message is sent from SSCP 415 to mobility switch 325 containing threeinstruction items. First, SSCP 415 informs mobility switch 325 toretrieve an appropriate telecommunications circuit for routing of thecall. Second, SSCP 415 informs mobility switch 325 to send the mobileidentification number specified in the message to an appropriate switchconnected thereto, i.e., to a switch along the designated circuit.Third, SSCP 415 directs mobility switch 325 to outpulse the dialednumber to this same switch.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating the relationship between themobility switch and a sample telecommunications network that handles anoutbound private dialing plan call. FIG. 8 includes mobility switch 325,IEC switch 810, and DAP (data access point) 820.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the sequence of steps carried out inrouting a private dialing plan call, after a message set is receivedfrom the SSCP 415. The steps of FIG. 9 are best understood with respectto the block diagram of FIG. 8.

In step 900, mobility switch 325 retrieves an appropriate switch trunkgroup for processing the outbound call from dual mode mobile station305. In the instant embodiment, mobility switch 325 designates a trunkgroup for IEC switch 810 for call routing.

In step 910, mobility switch 325 outpulses the mobile identificationnumber specified by the SDP 420 and the dialed number to the appropriateswitch. In the instant embodiment, the mobile identification numberspecified by the SDP 420 and the dialed number are transmitted to IECswitch 810. In the instant embodiment, mobility switch 325 outpulsesYYY-YYY-YYYY to IEC switch 810.

In step 920, the selected switch determines that the call is a privatedialing plan call and transmits the dialed number to a translation tablein order to translate the private dialing plan telephone number into aPSTN number recognized by the telecommunications provider. Specifically,in the instant embodiment, IEC switch 810 determines that the call is aVNet call and transmits the dialed number received to DAP 820.

As noted to above, a switch designated to handle an outbound call musttranslate the private dialing plan number to a number that is recognizedby the switches of the telecommunications provider. Generally, a privatedialing plan number (e.g., a VNet number) is a number that is dialed bya customer and recognized by the telecommunications service as belongingto that customer. After the customer dials the private dialing plannumber, the private dialing plan number is routed to thetelecommunications service provider, or more specifically, to atelecommunications switch used by the telecommunications serviceprovider for handling private dialing plan telephone calls. However, theprivate dialing plan telephone number is not necessarily in a form thatis acceptable for routing between the telecommunication provider'snetwork elements. Therefore, the telecommunications service providermust translate the private dialing plan telephone number into a formthat is recognizable by its network elements, namely, into arecognizable number. The number is routed between from thetelecommunications service provider's switches to the destinationcaller.

In FIG. 8, IEC switch 810 handles private dialing plan calls transmittedfrom mobility switch 325. In order to translate the private dialing plantelephone number into a PSTN telephone number, i.e., a telephone numberthat is recognizable by the telecommunication provider's switches, IECswitch 810 transmits the mobile identification number specified by SDP420 and the dialed number to DAP (data access point) 820. A DAP is oneform of an externally-located routing and translation table used by IECswitches to aid in routing a call. A DAP is a facility that receives aninformation request from an IEC switch, processes the request, andreturns requested information or instructions back to the requesting IECswitch.

For purposes of the instant invention, it is not necessary that atelecommunications switch handling a UPCS call from a mobility switchuse an external routing and translation table such as a DAP when itreceives a private dialing plan telephone number. The switch receiving aprivate dialing plan telephone number may provide its own in-switchtranslation of the private dialing plan telephone number into a PSTNtelephone number without routing the call externally. For example, IECswitch 810 may perform an in-switch translation of the private dialingplan telephone number YYY-YYY-YYYY into a telephone number recognized bythe telecommunications service provider's switches.

In step 930, the translation table that has received the private dialingplan telephone number informs the selected switch how to complete thecall. In the instant embodiment, DAP 820 outpulses a telephone numberrecognized by the switches of the telecommunications service provider toIEC switch 810.

In step 940, the selected switch routes the call to the appropriatedestination.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating how the call can be routed fromthe designated switch. Specifically, FIG. 10 illustrates three potentialpaths that the call may traverse from IEC switch 810, which switch hadbeen designated for call routing by mobility switch 325.

Path 1050 illustrates the call being routed from IEC switch 810 toanother IEC switch 1005. IEC switch 1005 routes the call over a DAL toPBX 1010. PBX 1010 then rings the destination caller 1025. Whendestination caller 1025 answers the telephone or handset, a voicechannel is established between dual mode mobile station 305 and thedestination caller 1025.

Path 1060 illustrates a call being routed from IEC switch 810 to IEClocal switch 1015. IEC local switch 1015 routes the call to destinationcaller 1030, wherein the telephone is rung and a voice channel isestablished after the telephone is answered. Recent tariff guidelinesestablished within the United States allow a long-distance carrier toprovide a local switch within a LATA (local access and transport area).Therefore, an IEC local switch, such as IEC local switch 1015, maycompete for services with existing LEC switches.

Path 1070 illustrates a connection between IEC switch 810 and a LEC,specifically with LEC switch 1020. The call is routed to a POP(point-of-presence), and subsequently routed to LEC switch 1020, forestablishing communication with destination caller 1035. As describedabove, a voice channel is established after destination caller 1035answers the telephone.

b. An Outbound Debit Call

The following is a description of an outbound call from a dual modemobile station that is debited to the dual mode mobile station user.

The first leg of the call, namely, sending the mobile identificationnumber specified by the SDP 420, the dialed number, and the UPCS areasite information to the appropriate switch is the same as for anoutbound private dialing plan call. Therefore, the mobility switch 325transmits the mobile identification number specified by the SDP 420, thedialed number, and the UPCS area site information to IEC switch 410.

Turning again to FIG. 7, in step 710, the number dialed by dual modemobile station 305 is searched for a match in the allowed call section610.

In step 720, since no match for the dialed number is located in theallowed call section 610, control is passed to step 740.

In step 740, it must be determined whether the number dialed from thedual mode mobile station is restricted. Specifically, the number dialedfrom the dual mode mobile station 305 is searched in the restricted listsection 630 of SDP 420. Control is passed to step 750.

In step 750, if it was determined in step 740 that the dialed number isfound in the restricted list, then control is passed to step 760. Instep 760, the user is prevented from transmitting a call where thedestination indicated by the dialed number is restricted. For example,the user's carrier company (who owns the dual mode mobile station 305)may update the restricted list section 630 to prohibit the user frommaking a call to a given destination.

Optionally, if the dual mode mobile station user attempts to place acall to a destination number located in the restricted list section 630,then SSCP 415 may send a message set indicating this condition tomobility switch 325, which in turn will make the user aware that thedialed number is a restricted number.

Steps 740 and 750, i.e., to restrict the dialed number if the dialednumber is found in restricted list 630, comprise optional steps that maybe bypassed, as recognized by those of ordinary skill.

In step 750, if it is determined that the dialed number is notrestricted, or optionally, if restriction is not performed, then controlis passed to step 770. In step 770, the call is to be treated as a debitcall.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an outbound debitcall. In step 1200, call rating is performed. As briefly noted above,call rating is a procedure used to determine at what rate to bill thecall. Call rating requires applying pre-determined time-based billingrates to the distance between the originating caller and the destinationcaller. If the distance is unknown (or insignificant), then the call israted at a flat rate.

In step 1210, it is determined whether the user's balance is sufficientto complete the call. Specifically, SDP 420 determines whether thecredit balance associated with the dual mode mobile station issufficient to complete the call. Referring to FIG. 6, as a first stepSDP 420 searches the debit account balance section 640 of OCSP 505 todetermine whether the caller has previously paid for sufficient funds toplace the call. In the instant embodiment, SDP 640 determines that theuser using dual mode mobile station 305 has previously paid for $50.00worth of telephone calls. If $50.00 is sufficient to permit the callerusing dual mode mobile station 305 to place the call for a minimumthreshold number of minutes, then the user is permitted to complete thecall.

On the other hand, if the debit account balance section 640 indicatesthat the user using dual mode mobile station 305 has insufficient fundsto complete the call, then the caller using dual mode mobile station 305is provided the opportunity to make an advanced form of payment.

For one example, a voice instruction or some other indicator will cuethe user to enter his credit card number and credit card expirationdate. If the credit card number and credit card expiration date arevalid numbers, and if the caller has sufficient funds on the creditcard, then the caller's credit card is debited for the requested amount.Those of ordinary skill in the art recognize how to implement creditcard acceptance and validation.

For another example, the caller purchases credits at a kiosk, usingeither a credit card or a calling card provided by a telecommunicationsservices provider. The caller also provides identification information(e.g., mobile identification number of the dual mode mobile station) atthe kiosk. In this example, the kiosk is connected to IN platform 430,which automatically credits the debit account balance associated withthe caller's dual mode mobile station. Since the kiosk is connected toIN platform 430, specifically SDP 420, IN platform 430 automaticallycredits the debit account balance section 640 associated with the OCSP505 of dual mode mobile station 305.

As recognized by those of ordinary skill, other forms of advance paymentprovided by the dual mode mobile station user are acceptable as well.

In step 1220, the dual mode mobile station user's debit account balanceis decremented during the call and the caller is informed in the eventthat his debit account balance approaches zero or some other arbitrarythreshold. The length of the call is monitored in real time to ensurethat the caller does not exceed the debit account balance. For example,for dual mode mobile station 305, the debit account balance is providedin the debit account balance section 640 of OCSP 505. Therefore, once itis determined that the destination caller dialed by the dual mode mobilestation user is not a restricted number and that the user has sufficientfunds to place the call, SDP 420 monitors the debit account balance forthe dual mode mobile station.

For an outbound debit call, since no private dialing plan is used, thetranslation of the dialed number to a PSTN number, as provided inrelation to FIG. 8, is unnecessary. The dialed number is used by thetelecommunications service provider to route the call to an appropriatedestination. Therefore, routing of the call is the same as describedwith relation to FIG. 10 above.

2. How a Customer May Designate a Call as a Private Dialing Plan Call ora Restricted Call

FIG. 11 is used to show how a customer may designate a call as a privatedialing plan call or as a restricted call. Specifically, FIG. 11 is adetailed description illustrating how the databases of the IN platform430 are updated. The VNet customer (i.e., in this case a fleet carrier)is provided a computer connected to the IN platform 430, for providingupdates to the databases incorporated within the IN platform 430.

In the instant embodiment, the user's company (e.g., the trucker'scarrier company) has a telecommunications administrator who overseesemployee communications usage. The administrator uses computer 1100 asan interface with customer service platform 1110. A human or machineuser invokes a database updating program on an application running oncomputer 1100. The application running on computer 1100 transmits anupdate request to customer service platform 1110. In response, customerservice platform 1110 transmits an update request to SDP 420 includedwithin IN platform 430. The request for database updating may occur inreal-time or in a batch processing mode. In another embodiment, computer1100 bypasses the customer service platform 430 and establishes directconnection with SDP 420.

In this matter, the entity that authorizes available private dialingplan calls, e.g., the user's company, may update the allowed callsection 610 and the restricted list section 630 of FIG. 6. In otherwords, the user's carrier company can indicate the telephone numbersavailable to the user for private dialing plan calls, in addition to thetelephone numbers not available to the user from the dual mode mobilestation.

If the user desires to call a telephone number not indicated as aprivate dialing plan call (i.e., the telephone number is not located inthe allowed call section 610), which is not a restricted number (i.e.,the telephone number is not located in the restricted list section 630),then the call may be debited to the mobile station user.

3. An Inbound Call in a UPCS Communications Mode

The following is a description of an inbound call to a dual mode mobilestation in the UPCS mode. FIGS. 13A-13C are flow charts illustrating theoperation of an inbound call to a dual mode mobile station in a UPCSmode.

In step 1300, an incoming call is originated by an originating caller.In step 1305 it is determined whether the call is a private dialing plancall. For a VNet call, it is determined whether the call is a remoteaccess call, a registered access call, or a call from a VNet DAL, asexplained below.

As mentioned, for a VNet, the call can be distinguished in three waysfrom a PSTN call: (1) the call may be routed over a DAL designated for aprivate dialing plan customer, and (2) the caller may be required todial a special access code, followed by a VNet number, or (3) the IECswitch recognizes the mobile identification number of the calling phoneas belonging to a VNet customer.

Referring again to FIG. 10, originating caller 1025 may obtain VNetaccess to IEC switch 1005 via PBX 1010 and DAL 1040. Every call placedover DAL 1040 is a VNet call.

Alternatively, a hypothetical VNet caller may obtain access to VNetservice by dialing a special VNet access number, followed by a VNetnumber. Specifically, originating caller 1035 may obtain access to IECswitch 810 through LEC switch 1020 over route 1070 by dialing a special"800" access number. IEC switch 810 then returns a dial tone tooriginating caller 1035. At that point, originating caller 1035 dials aspecial VNet number, which is routed to IEC switch 810. If IEC switch810 has VNet capability, then IEC switch 810 will handle the VNet call.Alternatively, IEC switch 810 may route the call to another switch thathas VNet capability, such as IEC switch 1005.

Alternatively, a hypothetical VNet call may obtain service by dialing a700-XXX-XXXX number. LEC switch 1020 determines by the dialed700-XXX-XXX number to route the call, along with the dialed number andthe dual mode mobile station's mobile identification number, to IECswitch 810 using shared trunk group 1070. IEC switch 810 then determineswhether the call is a VNet call depending upon the mobile identificationnumber.

If it is determined that the call is not a private dialing plan call,then control passes to step 1365 in FIG. 13B.

Otherwise, if it is determined that the call is a private dialing plancall, then in step 1310 the number provided by the dual mode mobilestation is translated, and in step 1315 routing instructions and thetranslated number are sent to the appropriate switch, e.g., IEC switch810.

In step 1320, IEC switch 810 sends the call to the IN platform 430 (seeFIG. 4) and outpulses thereto the translated number. In step 1325, INplatform 430 determines the call to be a private dialing plan call usingthe translated number, and further invokes call processing to obtain arouting number from the HLR. In the instant embodiment, as shown in FIG.4, IEC switch 810 sends a message set that includes the dialed number toSSCP 415 of IN platform 430. SSCP 415 then queries HLR 330 in order todetermine the current location of the mobile station being called.

In step 1330, HLR 330 determines whether the dual mode mobile station isregistered at a UPCS location. In one embodiment, the HLR 330 searchedfor the location of the dual mode mobile station when the dual modemobile station operates in a UPCS mode is the same as the HLR 160searched for the location of the dual mode mobile station when the dualmode mobile station operates in a cellular communications mode.Specifically, in this embodiment HLR 330 for the UPCS areas is the sameas HLR 160 used for cellular communication, so that SSCP 415 routes thequery to a singular HLR.

If HLR 330 is not registered at a UPCS location, then control is passedto step 1387 (FIG. 13C). In that step, HLR 330 sends the stored cellularnumber for the dual mode mobile station to the IN platform 430.Subsequently, in step 1390 IN platform 430 determines whether the numberreceived from the HLR 330 is a cellular number. This is an importantdetermination, because the rate for completing a call in a cellular modemay be different from the rate for completing a call in a UPCS mode.

If in step 1330 (FIG. 13A) it is determined that the dual mode mobilestation is registered to a UPCS location, then in step 1335 HLR 330sends a message set to mobility switch 325 requesting a temporaryrouting number and subsequently waits for a response from mobilityswitch 325. In step 1340, HLR 330 sends the temporary routing number(received from mobility switch 325) to IN platform 430.

In step 1345, IN platform 430 outpulses the temporary routing number toappropriate IEC switch or switches. In this case, the temporary routingnumber is sent to IEC switch 410. In step 1350, IEC switch 410 thenroutes the call to the mobility switch 325 (at the UPCS location of thedual mode mobile station).

In step 1355, mobility switch 325, radio exchange 320, and antenna andbase station 315 work together to ring the dual mode mobile station 305.

In step 1360, the user answers the dual mode mobile station and the callis connected.

In step 1383, if it is determined that the call is a debit call, thencontrol is passed to step 1385 (FIG. 13C). In step 1385, IN platform 430determines when call disconnection occurs (i.e., when the call ends) andupdates the amount of credit available to the dual mode mobile station.Referring to FIG. 6, debit account balance section 640 is adjustedaccordingly.

In step 1362, the calling parties end the call and the connection isterminated.

The following is an explanation of what happens if in step 1305 it isdetermined that the call is a debit call. Referring to FIG. 13B, in step1365 it is determined whether the call is to a UPCS user. If the call isnot to a UPCS user, then in step 1367 the call is handled as an ordinarydial one (PSTN) call.

If the call is to a UPCS user, then in step 1369 the switch handling thecall (in this case IEC switch 810) routes the call to IN platform 430,in addition to outpulsing thereto the dialed number.

In step 1370, IN platform 430 determines the call to be a debit callusing the translated number, and further invokes call processing toobtain a routing number from the HLR. Similarly to the above discussionof FIG. 13A, as shown in FIG. 4 IEC switch 810 sends a message set thatincludes the dialed number to SSCP 415 of IN platform 430. SSCP 415 thenqueries HLR 330 in order to determine the current location of the mobilestation being called. (HLR 330 for the UPCS areas can be the same as HLR160 used for cellular communication.)

In step 1372, HLR 330 determines whether the dual mode mobile station isregistered at a UPCS location. If HLR 330 is not registered at a UPCSlocation, then control is passed to step 1387 (FIG. 13C). In that step,HLR 330 sends the stored cellular number for the dual mode mobilestation to the IN platform 430. Subsequently, in step 1390 IN platform430 determines whether the number received from the HLR 330 is acellular number. (This information is important because the rate forcompleting a call in a cellular mode may be different from the rate forcompleting a call in a UPCS mode.)

If in step 1372 (FIG. 13A) it is determined that the dual mode mobilestation is registered to a UPCS location, then in step 1375 HLR 330sends a message set to mobility switch 325 requesting a temporaryrouting number and subsequently waits for a response from mobilityswitch 325. In step 1377, HLR 330 sends the temporary routing number(received from mobility switch 325) to IN platform 430. In step 1380, INplatform 430 rates the call (i.e., determines the payment required) anddetermines whether the dual mode mobile station has a sufficient debitaccount balance (i.e., debit account balance section 640, shown in FIG.6, is checked) to place the call. If there are sufficient finds orcredits, then the call is placed according to steps 1345-1362, asdescribed above. If there are insufficient funds or credits, then thecall is terminated in step 1383. (Optionally, the originating caller isinformed of why the call is terminated in step 1383.)

III. System and Method for Cellular Reseller Control of Inbound Calls toa Mobile Station

FIG. 14 illustrates call termination to a cellular telephone.Specifically, FIG. 14 illustrates an inbound call to a dual mode mobilestation. FIG. 14 comprises originating caller 1405, PSTN 1410, INplatform 1415, PSTN 1420, cellular network 1425, and dual mode mobilestation 1430. Resell platform 1415 comprises intelligent networkcommunications equipment that provides a telecommunications servicesprovider the ability to determine the ultimate routing of a call or toprovide each call with special features, such as an AIN (advancedintelligent network), and in particular an IN (intelligent network)platform, though equivalents thereof may be used as known to those ofordinary skill.

In order for the dual mode station to perform in both a cellular modeand a UPCS mode, a single service provider will likely attempt toprovide both types of services. Therefore, in the instant embodiment,the single service provider will resell cellular services to either theentity paying for a private dialing plan service (e.g., the user'scompany) or to a dual mode mobile station user paying for a debit call.A reseller is a company that purchases a group of cellular numbers froma cellular service provider for resale to its customers.

Accordingly, dual mode mobile station 1430 has an associated PSTN number214-234-1234 (unknown to the dual mode mobile station user), which thereseller has purchased from the cellular service provider. Any time acaller dials the number 214-234-1234, the call is routed through thePSTN to the network of the cellular service provider, which subsequentlyrings dual mode mobile station 1430. For the instant embodiment, thecellular network may resemble the cellular network of FIG. 1, thoughthose of ordinary skill will easily recognize that the instantembodiment is applicable to any cellular network.

Initially, the inbound call is routed through the network of thecellular services providers, LEC service providers, and IEC serviceproviders, as required. The dual mode mobile station is located asprovided in the above explanation with respect to FIG. 1.

After the called dual mode mobile station 1430 goes off-hook (i.e., dualmode mobile station 1430 is answered by the dual mode mobile stationuser), a traffic channel is established between the originating callerand the called dual mode mobile station. In addition, the centralizedswitching centers (e.g., MSCs) create call records using the truedestination cellular telephone number of the called dual mode mobilestation 1430, namely, 214-234-1234, for the purpose of billing thecustomer.

In the instant embodiment, the reseller of cellular service is billedfor any cellular phone calls placed to dual mode mobile station 1430.The reseller has purchased the destination telephone number 214-234-1234from a cellular services provider and sells use of the dual mode mobilestation 1430 to a secondary customer. If the inbound call is a validprivate dialing plan call, then the reseller must bill the customer(e.g., the user's company) in arrears. On the other hand, if the inboundcall is a valid debit call to the dual mode mobile station user, namely,a call for which the dual mode mobile station user has authorizedpayment, then the reseller must debit the dual mode mobile stationuser's account for the call.

There are two potential problems that may arise, causing the reseller ofcellular service to be billed for a phone call that the reseller is notin a position to bill to any customer. A first problem is created in thesituation wherein originating caller 1405 is aware of the cellulartelephone number 214-234-1234 associated with the dual mode mobilestation 1430. If the originating caller 1405 is aware of this number,the originating caller can simply dial the number, which is transmittedvia the PSTN (e.g., PSTN 1410 and PSTN 1420) to the cellular network1425 for transmission to dual mode mobile station 1430. In thissituation, the reseller of cellular service is completely bypassed, suchthat the reseller is not capable of determining the outcome of the callor of billing the call to any customer. Hence, the reseller of cellularservice will be billed by the cellular service provider for a call overwhich the reseller has no control. The reseller is unable to pass on anypayment to a secondary customer, namely the purchaser of the privatedialing plan or the dual mode mobile station user himself. Accordingly,it is important to maintain the cellular telephone number, e.g., thecellular telephone number 214-234-12334, unrevealed to the originatingcaller 1405.

A second problem associated with the first problem occurs when the dualmode mobile station user 1430 learns of the true destination number214-234-1234 through happenstance. For example, suppose an originatingcaller dials 214-234-1234 by accident. When the user of dual mode mobilestation 1430 receives such a call, and becomes aware that an originatingcaller was capable of calling him by dialing the number 214-234-1234that was previously unknown to him, then the user of dual mode mobilestation 1430 is made aware that he can receive a free telephone call ifan originating caller dials the number 214-234-1234.

In order to solve these problems, the reseller of cellular service must(1) hide the true destination number 214-234-1234 from the destinationdual mode mobile station 1430 user, and (2) provide a form ofintervention between the originating caller and the destination dualmode mobile station for an inbound cellular call. As discussed furtherbelow, the reseller will provide (1) an IN platform 1415 between theoriginating caller 1405 and the destination dual mode mobile station1430, (2) a connection and corresponding dialogue between the INplatform 1415, and both the cellular network 1425 and the destinationdual mode mobile station 1430.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart demonstrating the establishment of a connectionbetween the originating caller and the destination dual mode mobilestation for an inbound call. Specifically, in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the invention, FIG. 15 illustrates thequalification of the originating caller 1405 by the IN platform 1415,and the location of the destination dual mode mobile station 1430.

In step 1510, the reseller assigns a destination telephone number todual mode mobile station 1430, which is different than the truedestination number purchased from the cellular services provider. Thedual mode mobile station destination telephone number may be a standardPSTN number. However, the reseller may also provide the subscriberspecial access numbers, such as an "800" number, a "500" number, orequivalents thereof. For a special access number, the caller initiallydials the special access code, and is subsequently prompted for anadditional number (i.e., provided by the reseller) in order to obtainaccess to the network elements that complete the call. In addition, fora special access number, the number itself (i.e., the "800" number) mayalso be associated with a specific destination dual mode mobile station,wherein a second number need not be dialed by the user. The callednumber, whether a special access number or a PSTN number, will be routedto the IN platform 1415.

In step 1520, the IN platform 1415 observes the incoming digits receivedfrom PSTN 1410 and determines whether the call is a valid call.Specifically, the IN platform 1415 looks up the special access number orthe PSTN number in a database in order to validate the call. Asrecognized by those of ordinary skill, an IN platform 430 database orequivalent may be used for validation.

In step 1530, flow control is determined from the determination ofwhether the call is valid from step 1520. In step 1530, if it wasdetermined in step 1520 that the call is not a valid call to a dual modemobile station recognized by IN platform 1415, then in step 1540 INplatform 1415 will not complete the call. In one embodiment, IN platform1415 transmits a message to inform the originating caller 1405 that thecall is not a valid call.

In step 1530, if it was determined in step 1520 that the call is a validcall to a dual mode mobile station recognized by IN platform 1415, thenthe flowchart is resumed in step 1550.

In step 1550, IN platform 1415 translates the received digits to thetrue destination number of the called dual mode mobile station 1430(e.g., 214-234-1234). At this point, the call rating may be started bythe reseller in order to determine how much to charge the customer (thecalled dual mode mobile station) for the call. As with the aboveembodiment describing billing with respect to an inbound PCS call, theIN platform can determine whether the call is a private dialing plancall depending upon whether a private dialing plan special access codehas been dialed, or whether the call has been routed over a DALpre-designated for a private dialing plan customer. In the event thecall is not a private dialing plan call, the IN platform 1415 must debitthe called dual mode mobile station for the call in advance of the call.

In step 1560, IN platform 1415 transmits the true destination number toPSTN 1420. PSTN 1420, in turn, transmits the true destination number tocellular network 1425.

In step 1570, the cellular services provider locates the dual modemobile station using the true destination number. This step is performedas discussed above with relation to FIG. 1. Once the called dual modemobile station is located, billing is handled similarly as describedwith relation to an inbound PCS call. Specifically, the called dual modemobile station is billed in arrears if the call is a private dialingplan call. On the other hand, if the call is not restricted, then thedebit account balance associated with the called dual mode mobilestation is checked to determine whether there are sufficient fundsavailable in the called dual mode mobile station to allow the call.

In step 1580, authorization processing of the destination dual modemobile station commences. Specifically, data communication between INplatform 1415 and the dual mode mobile station 1430 will determinewhether the inbound call to the dual mode mobile station is a validcall.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart for a first method for determining whether thecall transmitted from the IN platform to the located dual mode mobilestation is a valid call.

In step 1605, the cellular service provider 1415 transmits signalinginformation over the radio path instructing the dual mode mobile station1430 to ring. After receiving the signaling information, the dual modemobile station 1430 rings, or in some other way alerts the dual modemobile station user that a call is coming through.

In step 1610, the user responds to the ringing by answering the dualmode mobile station. As mentioned, this response is referred to as thereceiving party "going off-hook."

In step 1615, in response to the destination caller going off-hook, thecellular services provider transmits an answer supervision signal to thepreceding switch train to the IN platform 1415. In the sample cellularcommunications network of FIG. 1, the MSC of the location area whereinthe called dual mode mobile station is located will transmit the answersupervision signal to the IN platform 1415. Those of ordinary skill willrecognize that a component having equivalent functions in the cellularsystem may transmit the answer supervision signal as well. Answersupervision refers to signaling data transmitted from the central office(i.e., a centralized switch) of the destination caller to the centraloffice of the originating caller to inform the originating callercentral office to begin billing the call. In the instant embodiment, theMSC of the destination dual mode mobile station 1430 and the IN platform1415 fulfill the functions of central office switch, though those ofordinary skill will recognize that any equivalent switches will providesimilar functionality. Answer supervision actually begins when thedestination caller (e.g., the user of dual mode mobile station 1430)goes off-hook.

In step 1620, the destination dual mode mobile station 1430 monitors thereceive path for a secret code transmitted from the IN platform 1415.The secret code is a sequence of digits pre-stored by both the dual modemobile station 1430 and the IN platform 1415 for the purpose ofvalidating the call. Here, the dual mode mobile station monitorspre-designated frequencies for receipt of the secret code stored by theIN platform 1415. As provided below, the dual mode mobile station 1430must determine whether the secret code transmitted from the IN platform1415 matches the secret code stored in its own internal memory.

In step 1625, the cellular services provider "cuts through" a voice pathin two directions: (1) from the IN platform 1415 to the dual mode mobilestation 1430, and (2) from the dual mode mobile station 1430 to the INplatform 1415. "Cutting through" a voice path refers to the process ofassigning appropriate traffic frequencies for establishment of a voicecommunication. The radio voice cut through signal is transmitted at thetime the answer supervision signal is sent. After the voice path cutthrough, an open voice channel is provided between the IN platform 1415and the destination caller 1430. Step 1620 of monitoring of the radiopath for a secret code and step 1625 of cutting through bidirectional avoice path from the IN platform 1415 can be performed in sequence or inparallel.

In step 1630, IN platform 1415 sends the secret code to the destinationdual mode mobile station 1430. It is important to note that receipt ofthe radio voice path cut through signal and receipt of the secret codeby the dual mode mobile station 1430 must occur in order, and arenecessarily sequential in order. Accordingly it is possible that thesecret code is transmitted over an in-band signaling channel, whereinthe voice channel is used for both signaling data and voicecommunications, or an out-of-band signaling channel, wherein a separatechannel is used for signaling as for voice communication. However, ifin-band signaling is used, such that signaling information is to betransmitted over the voice channel, then it is necessary that the voicepath cut through be provided before the secret code is transmitted, sothat the secret code can be transmitted over the created voice path. Inany case, the instant invention permits one of ordinary skill in the artto use either a voice channel or a signaling channel for transmission ofthe secret code, or of any other equivalent information transmittedbetween network elements.

In step 1635, the dual mode mobile station 1430 receives the secret codeand authenticates the secret code. During authentication, the dual modemobile station 1430 analyzes the code to determine whether a correctcode has been transmitted from the IN platform 1415. The dual modemobile station may use any recognized method to authenticate the dualmode mobile station. As one example, the dual mode mobile stationauthenticates the secret code by running an algorithm using the secretcode as an input variable. As another example, the dual mode mobilestation compare the secret code to a value stored in an internal memory(e.g., a database) or an external memory (e.g., an intelligent card). Asrecognized by those of ordinary skill, any number of art-recognizedequivalents may be used to authenticate the secret code.

In step 1640, if it is determined that the secret code is an authenticcode, then control is passed to step 1645. Otherwise, if in step 1640 itis determined that the secret code is not an authentic code, thencontrol is passed to step 1655.

In step 1645, the dual mode mobile station 1430 transmits a connectedresponse signal to the IN platform. This signal informs the IN platformthat a proper connection has been established between the originatingcaller 1405 and the destination dual mode mobile station 1430. Inaddition, in step 1645 the speaker of dual mode mobile station 1430 isactuated (i.e., turned "ON"), so that dual mode mobile station 1430 willaccept and transmit voice communications from a user speaking into thedual mode mobile station. Accordingly, at step 1645 there is anend-to-end cut through voice path, wherein complete voice communicationsis established between the originating caller 1405 and the destinationdual mode mobile station 1430.

In one embodiment, the IN platform 1415 waits to create the end-to-endcut through path of step 1645 until after it receives a confirmationthat the dual mode mobile station 1430 received the secret code and thesecret code is determined to be authentic. In this embodiment, time-outsignaling is used, wherein IN platform 1415 waits for a response to thesecret code it has transmitted to the dual mode mobile station 1430. Ifa response is not received within a pre-determined time period, anothersecret code message is sent to dual mode mobile station 1430. Apre-determined number of signals followed by a time-out are allowedbefore IN platform 1415 determines the connection is not valid. Shouldthis latter determination be made, IN platform 1415 will terminate theconnection and may transmit a corresponding alarm signal to originatingcaller 1405.

In another embodiment, IN platform 1415 waits to create the voice pathcut through in two directions of step 1625 until after it receives aconfirmation that the dual mode mobile station 1430 received the secretcode and the secret code is determined to be authentic. Here, time-outsignaling may be provided similarly as discussed above.

Step 1650 is an optional step. In this step, both the IN platform 1415and the destination dual mode mobile station 1430 set a new secret code,for future calls. Specifically, both the IN platform 1415 and thedestination dual mode mobile station 1430 will use the previous secretcode to create a new secret code, one that will be the same for the INplatform 1415 and the dual mode mobile station 1430. As recognized bythose of ordinary skill, a new secret code may be established in avariety of ways. For example, both the IN platform and the dual modemobile station may apply a pre-designated algorithm using the old secretcode an input, in order to derive a new secret as output. The next timean inbound call is received by dual mode mobile station 1430, the INplatform 1415 will send the new secret code and the dual mode mobilestation 1430 will look for the new secret code. In this manner, thesecret code can be set dynamically.

If in step 1640 it is determined that the secret code is not anauthentic code, then control is passed to step 1655. In step 1655, it isdetermined whether time-out signaling is to be applied duringauthentication. If time-out signaling is applied during authentication,then control is passed to step 1660. Otherwise, if time-out signaling isnot applied during authentication, then control is passed to step 1670.

If time-out signaling is provided during authentication, then in step1660 dual mode mobile station 1430 transmits a failed response to the INplatform 1415 because it determines that it received an invalid secretcode or did not receive any secret code. Dual mode mobile station 1430waits for another secret code to be transmitted from the IN platform1415. If a response is not received within a pre-determined time period,it will send a message to IN platform 1415 indicating it has notreceived a valid secret code. After dual mode mobile station 1430transmits such messages and times-out a pre-determined number of times,control is passed to step 1670.

In step 1670 the connection is terminated. If control is passed to step1670 from steps 1655 or 1660, it is determined that the connection hasfailed. Dual mode mobile station 1430 transmits an on-hook signal to theIN platform, which terminates the connection. An alarm signal informingdestination caller 1405 of what has occurred may optionally be provided.On the other hand, if control is passed to step 1670 from step 1650,then the connection has been completed and the calling parties havecompleted their conversation. In this latter case, dual mode mobilestation 1430 transmits an on-hook signal to the IN platform to terminatethe connection, but no alarm signal need be generated.

There is a second approach to ensuring that the reseller is not bypassedby the caller originating the call, and that the reseller may properlypass on its charges to a customer. This second approach uses a serviceprovided by cellular services providers known as SCA (selective callacceptance).

Referring to FIG. 15, steps 1510-1540 are performed exactly the same asdescribed above. However, in step 1550 identification informationassociated with the originating caller 1405 (e.g., calling party number)is translated by the IN platform 1415 into a platform identificationnumber provided by the reseller to the cellular service provider.

The IN platform 1415 transmits the platform identification number as thecalling party number and the true destination number to the PSTN 1420,which routes the information to the cellular network 1425.Alternatively, this information may be routed directly to an MSC in thecellular network 1425, without first routing the information to the PSTN1420.

The MSC receiving this identification information, called the home MSC,invokes SCA or a similar service, wherein the platform identificationinformation is compared to an SCA database to determine whether the callis to be completed or blocked. If a match for the platformidentification number is found, then the cellular services providerextends the call as described with respect to FIG. 1, including theon-hook, off-hook, answer supervision signals described with respect toFIG. 16. However, because the cellular services provider uses the SCA toauthorize the call, there is no need for the called dual mode mobilestation 1430 and the IN platform 1415 to exchange a secret code asdescribed therein.

If a match for the platform identification number is not found in theSCA database, then the cellular services provider blocks the call. Ifthe call is blocked, an alarm indication may be transmitted back to thehandset of the originating caller 1405.

IV. System and Method for Cellular Reseller Control of Outbound Callsfrom a Mobile Station

FIG. 17 illustrates a call originating from a dual mode mobile stationtransmitted to a destination caller in an ordinary cellular network,i.e., a network with no reseller of cellular services. Because the calloriginates from a dual mode mobile station, it is referred to as anoutbound call from an originating dual mode mobile station. FIG. 17comprises originating dual mode mobile station 1705, BTS 1710, BSC 1715,MSC 1720, LEC 1725, and destination caller 1730. BTS 1710 and BSC 1715comprise a base station subsystem (BSS) for the cell wherein originatingdual mode mobile station 1705 is located. The base station subsystemcomprises BTS 1710 and BSC 1715. One or more base station subsystemscomprise a location area, with each location area being serviced by asingle MSC 1720.

Initially, the call is transmitted from originating dual mode mobilestation 1705 to the base station subsystem servicing originating dualmode mobile station 1705. The request for making an outgoing call istransmitted to MSC 1720. MSC 1720 routes the call to an appropriatetelecommunications facility depending upon the location of thedestination caller with respect to the originating dual mode mobilestation 1705, and the telecommunications services providers chosen bythe originating and destination callers. If the destination caller werea cellular telephone, then the call would be routed to the destinationcaller in a manner similar to the above explanation with respect toFIG. 1. For simplification, the instant embodiment of FIG. 17illustrates the call being routed from MSC 1720 to a LEC 1725, whichcompletes the call to destination caller 1730. In addition, the call mayalso be routed to an IEC switch for routing through an IEC network forlong distance calls.

FIG. 18 illustrates an outbound call from a cellular telephone withreseller facilities. FIG. 18 comprises originating dual mode mobilestation 1805, BTS 1810, BSC 1815, MSC 1820, LEC 1825, portabilitydatabase 1830, IEC 1835, IN platform 1840, PSTN 1845, and destinationcaller 1850.

Resell platform 1840 comprises intelligent network communicationsequipment that provides a telecommunications services provider theability to determine the ultimate routing of a call or to provide eachcall with special features, such as an AIN (advanced intelligentnetwork), and in particular an IN (intelligent network) platform (i.e.,as described above in connection with FIGS. 4, 11), though equivalentsthereof may be used as known to those of ordinary skill.

In order for the dual mode mobile station to perform in both a cellularmode and a UPCS mode, a single service provider will likely attempt toprovide both types of services. Therefore, in the instant embodiment,the single service provider will resell cellular services to either theentity paying for a private dialing plan service (e.g., a user'scompany) or to a dual mode mobile station user (e.g., a user himself)paying for a debit call.

In the instant embodiment, the reseller of cellular service who providesdual mode mobile stations to a secondary customer is billed for anyoutbound cellular phone calls placed from dual mode mobile station 1805.If the outbound call is a valid private dialing plan call, one that willbe billed to the purchaser of the private dialing plan (i.e., the user'scarrier company), then the reseller must bill the call to the purchaserin arrears. On the other hand, if the outbound call is a valid debitcall to the dual mode mobile station user, namely, a call for which thedual mode mobile station user has authorized payment, then the resellermust debit the dual mode mobile station user's account for the call.

A problem arises if the user of the originating dual mode mobile station1805 is permitted to make an outbound call in a normal manner by simplydialing the destination telephone number of destination caller 1850. Inthis event, the cellular services provider will bill the reseller ofcellular services who has purchased cellular telephone numbers from thecellular services provider. However, since the reseller is bypassed inthe routing and billing of the call, the reseller is not capable ofdetermining the outcome of the call or of billing the call to anycustomer. Hence, the reseller will be billed by the cellular serviceprovider for a call over which the reseller has no control and for whichthe reseller is unable to pass on the payment to a secondary customer.

In order to solve this problem, the reseller of cellular service mustprovide a form of intervention between the originating dual mode mobilestation 1805 and the destination caller 1850. For this function, thereseller will provide: (1) an IN platform 1840 between the originatingdual mode mobile station 1805 and the destination caller 1850, and (2) aconnection and corresponding dialogue between the IN platform 1840 andthe originating dual mode mobile station 1805.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart demonstrating the establishment of a connectionbetween the originating dual mode mobile station and the destinationcaller, in connection with the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 19illustrates a connection between originating dual mode mobile station1805 and destination caller 1850.

In step 1905, the reseller provides the user of the originating dualmode mobile station 1805 an access number for use when making anoutbound cellular call. For example, the reseller may provide thesubscriber a special access number, such as an "800" number, a "500"number, or equivalents thereof. The access number is the only manner bywhich the user is permitted to make an outbound cellular phone callexcept for special emergency numbers, such as "911" calls. Emergencynumbers are routed directly to the destination caller using the standardtelecommunications network.

It should be noted that the access number can be transparent to and notaccessible by the user, i.e., the dual mode mobile station automaticallydials the access number first for all calls originating therefrom,except for emergency calls which are handled as noted above. Foradditional fraud protection, the cellular services provider can be askedto block all calls except for the specified access number and emergencynumbers.

In step 1910, the user of the originating dual mode mobile station 1805dials the access number provided by the reseller, or the access numberis dialed automatically by the mobile station itself, as noted.

In step 1915, the access number dialed by a user using originating dualmode mobile station 1805 is routed to the MSC of the cellular servicesprovider. Specifically, the number dialed by the user of originatingdual mode mobile station 1805 is transmitted to a base station subsystemcomprising BTS 1810 and BSC 1815, and then transmitted therefrom to MSC1820 of the cellular services provider.

In step 1920, it must be determined whether MSC 1820 is itself capableof routing the access number to the appropriate carrier. If it isdetermined that the MSC is indeed capable of routing the access numberto the appropriate carrier, then control is passed to step 1925. In step1925, MSC 1820 routes the access number to an appropriate carrier (e.g.,a LEC switch or an IEC switch) using a translation table associatedtherewith. From step 1925, control is immediately passed to step 1950,as described below.

If, in step 1920, it is determined that the MSC 1820 itself is notcapable of routing the access number to an appropriate carrier, thencontrol is passed to step 1930. In step 1930, MSC 1820 transmits theaccess number to a LEC facility, and in particular, to LEC switch 1825.Though in the instant embodiment MSC 1820 transmits the access number toa LEC facility, it is also possible for MSC 1820 to transmit the accessnumber to an IEC facility. In addition, it is also possible for MSC 1820to an IEC facility providing LEC services.

In step 1940, the LEC switch receiving the access number uses aninternal or an external database to determine where to route the accessnumber. As noted above, an equivalent IEC facility may receive the callas well. In particular, LEC switch 1825 uses portability database 1830to determine whether to route the access number. The portabilitydatabase 1830 may be located peripheral to LEC switch 1825.

In step 1945, the LEC routes the access number to an appropriate carrierassociated therewith as determined by the look-up in the portabilitydatabase 1830. In the instant example, LEC switch 1825 routes the accessnumber to IEC switch 1835.

In the instant embodiment, IEC switch 1835 is an initial access facilityused by the reseller in its carrier network. In step 1950, the carrierroutes the access number to the IN platform. In the instant example, IECswitch 1835 transmits the access number directly to IN platform 1840. Onthe other hand, the reseller may use a plurality of switches to transmitthe access number to its IN platform 1840. In addition, the IN platform1840 may validate the access number received by searching a validationdatabase for a match to the access number received.

In step 1955, the IN platform transmits a signal to the originating dualmode mobile station indicating that it has received a valid accessnumber. At this point, the IN platform 1840 begins monitoring a radioreceive path for a return signal from the originating dual mode mobilestation. Hence, the IN platform 1840 monitors the incoming circuit forreceipt of a signal from originating dual mode mobile station 1805.

The signal transmitted from IN platform 1842, originating dual modemobile station 1805 may be in-band signaling information or out-of-bandsignaling information, including DTMF tones. If, in step 1955, the INplatform 1840 transmits signaling information to originating dual modemobile station 1805 in-band (i.e., over a voice path), then it isnecessary that a voice path "cut through" had been previouslytransmitted from IN platform 1840 to originating MSC 1820. However, ifsignaling information transmitted from IN platform 1840 to originatingdual mode mobile station 1805 and from originating dual mode mobilestation 1805 to IN platform 1840 is transmitted out-of-band, i.e., notover a voice path, then a voice path cut through is not required at thispoint.

In step 1960, the originating dual mode mobile station sends the INplatform its stored mobile identification information and theuser-dialed number. The user-dialed number is the number of thedestination caller actually dialed by the user using originating dualmode mobile station 1805. This user-dialed number had been stored byoriginating dual mode mobile station 1805 when the user attempted toplace the call.

In step 1965, the IN platform authorizes the caller, determines the typeof call billing, and routes the call to the destination caller 1850through PSTN 1845. Since the user placing an outbound call fromoriginating dual mode mobile station 1805 is permitted to have a privatedialing plan method of payment or a debit account method of payment,call authorization, call billing and call routing are handled in asimilar manner to that performed for an outbound UPCS call. In otherwords, the call is authorized, billed, and routed as described abovewith respect to FIGS. 5-8.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described withreference to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood bythose skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form anddetails may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for controlling an outbound calltransmitted from a mobile station in a cellular frequency band, whereinuse of a cellular telephone number is purchased from a cellular servicesprovider by a reseller and maintained confidential from a user of thestation, comprising:(a) providing the user of the station with an accessnumber for dialing out from the station, which is different from thecellular telephone number, and permitting the user access to the accessnumber for an outbound call from the station, where the access numberforms a part of a message set for transmission to a cellular servicesfacility for accessing an IN (intelligent network) platform if said userdials a destination number, wherein said message set includes area siteinformation; (b) obtaining access to said IN platform for validation ofthe outbound call, wherein step (b) further comprises:(1) transmittingsaid access number to a switching facility having access to a carriercapable of transmitting said access number to said IN platform; (2)transmitting said access number to a switching facility of said carrier,said facility transmitting said access number to said IN platform forvalidation; (3) transmitting a signal to the station indicating a validaccess number has been received; (c) rating the outbound call andallowing the user to transmit a request for and receive call credits asneeded to complete the call; and (d) completing the outbound callbetween the user and a called party.
 2. A system for controlling a calltransmitted from a mobile station in a celluar frequency band, whereinuse of a cellular telephone number is purchased from a cellular servicesprovider by a reseller and maintained confidential from a user of thestation, comprising:means for providing the user of the station with anaccess number for dialing out from the station, which is different fromthe cellular telephone number, and permitting the user access to theaccess number for an outbound call from the station, where the accessnumber forms a part of a message set for transmission to a cellularservices facility for accessing an IN (intelligent network) platform ifsaid user dials a destination number, wherein said message set includesarea site information; means for obtaining access to said IN platformfor validation of the outbound call, wherein the means for obtainingaccess to said IN platform further comprises:means for transmitting saidaccess number to a switching facility having access to a carrier capableof transmitting said access number to said IN platform; means fortransmitting said access number to a switching facility of said carrier,said facility transmitting said access number to said IN platform forvalidation; means for transmitting a signal to the station indicating avalid access number has been received; means for rating the outboundcall and allowing the user to transmit a request for and receive callcredits as needed to complete the call; and completing the outbound callbetween the user and a called party.
 3. A method according to claim 2,further comprising:billing the outbound call to a private dialing plancustomer in arrears if it is determined that the outbound call is aprivate dialing plan call.
 4. A method according to claim 2, wherein ifit is determined that the outbound call is a debit call, then the methodfurther comprising:permitting completion of the outbound call if it isdetermined that there arc sufficient funds registered to the station tocomplete the outbound call for a predetermined period of time, whereinsaid call credits are consumed during the outbound debit call, during asubsequent outbound debit call, and during a subsequent inbound debitcall.
 5. A method according to claim 2, further comprising:preventingcompletion of the outbound call if it is determined that the outboundcall is a restricted call.
 6. A system for controlling a calltransmitted from a mobile station in a cellular frequency band, whereinuse of a cellular telephone number is purchased from a cellular servicesprovider by a reseller and maintained confidential from a user of thestation, comprising:means for providing the user of the station with anaccess number for dialing out from the station, which is different fromthe cellular telephone number, and permitting the user access to theaccess number for an outbound call from the station, where the accessnumber forms a part of a message set for transmission to a cellularservices facility for accessing an IN (intelligent network) platform ifsaid user dials a destination number, wherein said message set includesarea site information; means for obtaining access to said IN platformfor validation of the outbound call, wherein the means for obtainingaccess to said IN platform further comprises:means for transmitting saidaccess number to a switching facility having access to a carrier capableof transmitting said access number to said IN platform; means fortransmitting said access number to a switching facility of said carrier,said facility transmitting said access number to said IN platform forvalidation; means for transmitting a signal to the station indicating avalid access number has been received; means for rating the outboundcall and allowing the user to transmit a request for and receive callcredits as needed to complete the call; and completing the outbound callbetween the user and a called party.
 7. A system according to claim 6,wherein said means for rating the outbound call and completing theoutbound call further comprises:means for transmitting the outbound callfrom a cellular area wherein the station is located to said IN platformto determine how to bill and route the outbound call; means for usingthe station identification number and said dialed destination number todetermine if the outbound call is one of a private dialing plan call, adebit call, and a restricted call.
 8. A system according to claim 7,wherein said means for rating the outbound call and completing theoutbound call further comprises:means for billing the outbound call to aprivate dialing plan customer in arrears if it is determined that theoutbound call is a private dialing plan call.
 9. A system according toclaim 7, further comprising:means for determining if the outbound callis a debit call, comprising:means for permitting completion of theoutbound call if it is determined that there are sufficient fundsregistered to the station to complete the outbound call for apredetermined period of time, wherein said call credits are consumedduring the outbound debit call, during a subsequent outbound debit call,and during a subsequent inbound debit call.
 10. A system according toclaim 7, further comprising:means for preventing completion of theoutbound call if it is determined that the outbound call is a restrictedcall.